Local Disaster Management Group

IN LIFE-THREATENING SITUATIONS, ALWAYS CALL 000.

The Douglas Local Disaster Management Group consists of key agencies consisting of local and state agencies including emergency service organisations, that are responsible for the planning stages of disaster management, as well as making important decisions during a disaster event, to assist the community.

Functions of a Local Disaster Management Group are identified within the Disaster Management Act 2003 and include the requirement to develop effective Local Disaster Management Plans encompassing the four aspects of Prevention, Preparation, Response and Recovery.

The Douglas LDMG is the lead authority in preparing for and responding to natural disasters and makes critical decisions including whether to activate cyclone shelters, issue evacuation orders and open the Local Disaster Coordination Centre and reports to the State Government when a natural disaster has been declared.

Disaster management planning for Douglas Shire Council is not solely the responsibility of Council, it is a joint responsibility held by all member agencies of the Douglas Shire Local Disaster Management Group, and each member agency has a vital role to play in the provision of an appropriate operational response to any event impacting upon the community.

Whilst the Douglas Shire Local Disaster Management Group and relevant emergency services will do all they can to assist the community in times of disaster, it should be remembered that individuals are ultimately responsible for their own safety — individuals need to be aware of the hazards that could affect their community and disaster management arrangements, which include the Local Disaster Management Plan, that are in place to deal with them.

During significant disaster and emergency events, and depending on circumstances, the Local Disaster Coordination Centre (LDCC) MAY be activated.

Should this be the case, notification will be provided through the media and our Customer Service staff.

If the Local Disaster Coordination Centre is activated, the emergency contact immediately AFTER a cyclone or major flood is (07) 4098 2599.